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Sneak peek: new VW Polo

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<b><a href=http://www.wheels24.co.za/Wheels24/WheelsGalleryListCars/1,5332,,00.html?path=http://galleries.wheels24.co.za/cars/vw/polo2003/ target=NewWindow>Click here for photo gallery</a></b>
<b><a href=http://www.wheels24.co.za/Wheels24/WheelsGalleryListCars/1,5332,,00.html?path=http://galleries.wheels24.co.za/cars/vw/polo2003/ target=NewWindow>Click here for photo gallery</a></b>
The first new South African Polos will only be available as hatchbacks but the sedan version - which is still in development - will probably arrive in the second half of next year to take on the new Toyota Corolla.

It has a complete new design with no resemblance to the current Polo. The 2003 Polo that is destined for the local market is also based on the European version.

There is a lot of detail in the new design such as the elegant round headlights. The rear is steeply raked with a crisp short overhang.

Typical VW the Polo will have the same class leading quality and refinement as the current Golf and Jetta. The cabin of this new German car will feature a high quality finish and good ergonomy with the familiar VW solidity.

The 2003 Polo has a longer wheelbase and is wider than the current model. Of course this results in a more spacious interior.

There are more leg and headroom for front and rear passengers. Boot space has also improved and the new Polo has a multitude of cabin storage areas.

We expect that the South African Polos will also get airbags and other safety equipment like ABS as standard features.

Another standard feature on the new Polo is electro-hydraulic power-assisted steering. Steering also adapts to driving speed and other vehicle characteristics, such as weight

There is no indication of the South African engine range yet. It will probably feature a new 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre power train but we expect a diesel version as well in the form of a 1.4TDi or 1.9TDi

The new Polo will make its public debut at the Auto Africa Expo at the end of next month. Wheels24 will keep you posted with all the latest info on the new Polo.

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